cleaning detachable towball

[g1]

I have changed my car to one with a detachable towball. Before I use it with my ALKO stabiliser I want to clean it as it is quite dirty and has a bit of rust on it.

Can you advise me of a) the best way to clean it up and how clean does it have to be and

b) how to keep it clean.

Thanks, Wes

 

[pappajohn]

hi g, try using brake and clutch cleaner (most motoring shops stock it)on a clean rag. it's a degreasing agent that evaporates leaving no residue. then give it a wipe with wire wool then more cleaner. cut a slot in an old tennis ball and turn it inside out (furry side in)then stick it over the towball. not pretty but effective.

i also use this cleaner on my windscreen to get rid of road film. john.

 

[antrimboy]

Rub it down with fine grade sandpaper until you get it as clean as you possibly can, preferably with the whole ball shining clear metal, and then clean it off with brake cleaner (preferably) or white spirit. Don't hook up for a day or so afterwards, as there will be a chance that the cleaning fluid residue may not be totally evaporated, and this can lead to horendous creaking noise, which will make you think that something seriously is wrong.I made this mistake recently prior to going away one week-end, and the outward trip was most annoying-the homeward trip two days later was totl silence.

To keep it clean, just use a good tow-ball cover, and wipe it occasionally with a clean cloth.If it starts to corrode over, then it's back to the sandpaper and cleaner I'm afraid.

 

[chrisn7]

Eddie suggests using white spirit, but this is not a good idea, as its a light oil and does not evaporate as brake/clutch cleaner does. If you've ever washed out a paint brush in white spirit and left the liquid to separate, you'll know what I mean

 

[Lutz]

The above replies have covered the task of cleaning the towball but you also asked how to keep it clean. You say you've got a detachable towball so the easiest way to keep it clean is to remove it when not towing and store it somewhere dry. Often there's even a dedicated pocket for the towball somewhere in the boot of the car.

 

[g1]

thanks for your tips - verty helpful. G